Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta with Smoked Sausage
What is Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta with Smoked Sausage? Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta with Smoked Sausage is a rich and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, smoky sausage, and pasta in a creamy Cajun-spiced sauce. This hearty meal brings a taste of the South to your dinner table.
Why this dish is a crowd-pleaser This dish is loved for its bold flavors and comforting creaminess. The combination of chicken, sausage, and pasta in a creamy, spicy sauce makes it a perfect choice for family dinners, gatherings, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests.
Brief history and origin Cajun cuisine originates from the French-speaking Acadian people who settled in Louisiana. Known for its bold spices and hearty ingredients, Cajun food reflects a blend of French, African, and Southern influences. This pasta dish is a modern twist on traditional Cajun flavors, bringing together elements of classic Italian and Southern cooking.
Nutritional profile This dish provides a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fats. Chicken and sausage offer protein, while the vegetables add vitamins and minerals. The pasta provides a source of energy-boosting carbohydrates.
Health advantages Despite being a creamy and indulgent dish, you can make it healthier by using whole wheat pasta, reducing the amount of cream, or adding more vegetables. The spices in Cajun seasoning can also boost metabolism and add antioxidants.
How to Make Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta with Smoked Sausage
Preparation steps
- Gather all your ingredients and chop the vegetables.
- Slice the chicken and sausage into bite-sized pieces.
Cooking instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the smoked sausage and cook until browned. Remove and set aside.
- Add the bell peppers, onion, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
- Return the chicken and sausage to the skillet. Add the Cajun seasoning and stir to coat everything evenly.
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer and cook until the sauce thickens.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and combined.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
Choosing the Right Pasta
Types of pasta to use Penne, fettuccine, or rigatoni are excellent choices for this dish as they hold the sauce well and provide a satisfying texture.
Cooking the pasta Cook the pasta until al dente according to the package instructions. This ensures the pasta remains firm and doesn’t become mushy when mixed with the sauce.
Selecting the Best Chicken
Fresh vs. frozen chicken Fresh chicken is preferred for its flavor and texture, but frozen chicken can be used if it’s properly thawed beforehand. Ensure the chicken is fully thawed to cook evenly.
Organic vs. conventional chicken Organic chicken tends to be free of antibiotics and hormones, offering a cleaner option. However, conventional chicken can also be used if organic is not available or within budget.
Using Smoked Sausage
Types of smoked sausage Andouille sausage is a popular choice for its robust, smoky flavor, but you can use any smoked sausage you prefer.
How to prepare it Slice the sausage into bite-sized pieces before cooking to ensure even browning and to allow the flavors to meld with the other ingredients.
Creating the Cajun Seasoning
Homemade vs. store-bought seasoning You can use store-bought Cajun seasoning for convenience, but making your own allows you to control the spice level and adjust the flavors to your liking.
Adjusting the spice level For a milder dish, reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or choose a blend with less heat. For more spice, add extra cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
Making the Creamy Sauce
Combining the ingredients Mix the heavy cream and chicken broth together before adding to the skillet. This ensures the sauce is smooth and well-blended.
Tips for a smooth sauce Whisk the sauce continuously as it simmers to prevent lumps and ensure an even consistency. Adding the Parmesan cheese gradually helps it melt smoothly into the sauce.
Assembling the Dish
Mixing the ingredients Combine the cooked pasta with the sauce, chicken, and sausage in the skillet. Toss everything together to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy Cajun sauce.
Final touches Garnish with chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestions
Traditional side dishes Serve this dish with garlic bread, a simple green salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Pairing with salads A crisp Caesar salad or a fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette pairs perfectly with the rich and creamy pasta.
Variations of Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Adding vegetables Incorporate vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to add color, texture, and nutritional value.
Using different proteins Swap chicken and sausage with shrimp, crab, or even tofu for a different twist on the classic recipe.
Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Pasta Dish
Common mistakes to avoid
- Don’t overcook the pasta, as it can become mushy when mixed with the sauce.
- Ensure the chicken is fully cooked before adding to the sauce to avoid foodborne illnesses.
Enhancing the flavor Use homemade chicken broth for a richer taste, and don’t be shy with the seasonings. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can elevate the dish.
Cultural Significance of Cajun Cuisine
Cajun cuisine in Southern cooking Cajun cuisine is known for its bold flavors, use of spices, and hearty ingredients. It plays a significant role in Southern cooking, particularly in Louisiana, where it has been influenced by French, Spanish, and African culinary traditions.
Family traditions and gatherings Cajun dishes are often enjoyed at family gatherings and celebrations, emphasizing communal eating and rich, flavorful food.
Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta in Restaurants
Where to find it Many Southern and Cajun restaurants feature this dish on their menus, often with their unique twists and variations.
Popular adaptations in eateries Restaurants may offer versions with blackened chicken, grilled shrimp, or even vegetarian options, showcasing the versatility of this dish.
Conclusion
Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta with Smoked Sausage is a delicious and satisfying dish that brings the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine to your table. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and smoky sausage, this pasta dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. It’s easy to customize and can be adapted to suit various tastes and dietary preferences.
FAQs
How do you store leftover pasta? Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Can this pasta be frozen? Yes, you can freeze the pasta in individual portions. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a skillet with a splash of cream or broth to maintain its creamy texture.
What are some common substitutes for smoked sausage? If you don’t have smoked sausage, you can use kielbasa, chorizo, or even turkey sausage as a substitute.
How can you make the pasta less spicy? Reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or use a mild version. Adding more cream or cheese can also help mellow out the spice.
Is this dish suitable for special diets? This dish can be adapted for various diets. Use gluten-free pasta and sausage for a gluten-free option, or dairy-free alternatives for a lactose-free version.
Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta with Smoked Sausage
Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta with Smoked Sausage is a rich and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, smoky sausage, and pasta in a creamy Cajun-spiced sauce. This hearty meal brings a taste of the South to your dinner table.
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoon butter, (unsalted and divided)
- 1 lb. chicken breasts
- 6 oz. smoked sausage, (sliced into ¼ inch pieces)
- 8 oz. baby Bella mushrooms, (sliced)
- Cajun seasoning, to taste
- Italian seasoning, to taste
- Salt and pepper, (to taste, optional)
- Creamy Parmesan Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic, (minced)
- 1 cup chicken broth, (sodium free)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon Paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¾ cup Parmesan cheese, (freshly grated for best results)
- sea salt, (to taste)
- Pasta:
- 8 oz. penne pasta
Instructions
Pasta:
- Boil pasta in salty water according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Chicken, sausage and mushrooms:
- Generously season chicken with salt, pepper, Cajun and Italian seasonings. Do not slice it yet – you will be cooking it whole. Slice sausage into ¼ inch circles and slice mushrooms.
- In a large skillet, add 1 tablespoon butter and melt it over medium high heat. When the pan is hot, add whole chicken breasts and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until browned for a total of 8-10 minutes. Remove chicken onto a plate and slice into strips.
- Add sliced sausage pieces and brown them on medium heat for 2-3 minutes on each side until darker in color around the edges. Remove from the skillet onto a plate.
- Deglaze the pan with a splash of water and add 2nd tablespoon of butter and sliced mushrooms into the skillet (add more butter as well, if needed). Saute until your mushrooms should look nice and moist, and dark. Once cooked, remove them from the pan as well.
Sauce:
- To make the sauce, add remaining 1 tablespoon butter to the pan, allow it to melt and then cook garlic in it until slightly browned – only for a couple of minutes. Next add chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce and heavy cream and bring to a light simmer. Add Cajun seasoning, paprika and garlic powder and mix into the sauce.
- Add Parmesan cheese and whisk to blend for 2-3 minutes to thicken the sauce. Taste the sauce and add salt to taste.
- Add cooked pasta into the sauce and mix in well. Next add the chicken, sausage and mushrooms back into the pan and allow them to reheat for 2-3 minutes. Close the lid to help the heat stay in. Serve immediately!